DODA: Harvinder Singh, Deputy Commissioner Doda, has been awarded with the prestigious Best Electoral Practices Award by the President of India during the National Voters’ Day celebrations at New Delhi. This recognition brings immense pride to the district and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, with Doda emerging as the only district from the UT among the top 10 in India for exemplary electoral practices. The award acknowledges the visionary leadership and dedication of Harvinder Singh and his team in ensuring inclusive, accessible and transparent elections during the General Assembly Elections 2024.
The administration under Singh implemented innovative measures to make voting accessible to every section of society, particularly focusing on marginalized and specially abled voters. Initiatives included mobile polling stations, home voting for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PwDs), Braille-enabled EVMs, pink polling stations for women, and accessible polling stations equipped with necessary facilities. These steps ensured that no voter, regardless of physical ability or geographic remoteness, was left behind. Special efforts were made to increase participation in Silent Village of India Dhadkai, a remote and underserved area, where tailored voter awareness programs and facilities significantly enhanced voter turnout.
Additionally, youth and women voter registration witnessed a remarkable surge through targeted campaigns, workshops, rallies, and mock polling sessions. These programs educated first-time voters about the electoral process and underscored the importance of democratic participation. The administration also conducted extensive outreach campaigns, addressing the challenges posed by the district’s mountainous terrain, ensuring effective voter education, and promoting inclusivity at every level.
This recognition stands as a testament to District Election Office Doda’s unwavering commitment to strengthening democracy and fostering an inclusive electoral environment. Harvinder Singh’s tireless efforts and innovative approach to election management have set a national benchmark, highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s dedication to upholding democratic values and empowering every voter to participate in the electoral process.
